The awards were formerly known as the W. C. Handy Awards (or "The Handys") but were renamed in 2006 in an effort to increase public appreciation of the significance of the awards.[2]

The awards had been presented annually in Memphis, Tennessee, where the Blues Foundation is located, although the 2008 award ceremony was held in Tunica, Mississippi.[3] The 35th Blues Music Awards were held on May 8, 2014, at the Cook Convention Center in Memphis.[4] The 36th Blues Music Awards were held on May 7, 2015.[5]